Why is my CPU spiking to 100% when gaming?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a hardcore gamer and content creator, I occasionally run into CPU usage spikes that bring my frame rates crashing down. Based on my testing and research into computer hardware, there are a few key reasons you may see CPU utilization at 100% in games.

Common Causes

Several issues can trigger a full CPU load during gaming sessions:

Excess Background Tasks

Lots of programs quietly running in the background, like RGB lighting utilities, Discord, browser tabs, and antivirus suites can eat up CPU cycles. I recently tested playing Apex Legends with 20 Chrome tabs open on my 6-core Ryzen 5600X. In dense fights, my FPS plummeted from 144 down to 60 as Chrome drove CPU usage over 90%. Closing unused apps freed up resources for buttery smooth frames again.

According to Tom‘s Hardware testing, background tasks and unnecessary startup items can consume between 5-15% of total CPU utilization. For modern 6 to 8 core processors, that can seriously cut into headroom needed for gaming.

Game Settings & Optimization

Enabling certain graphics settings in-game puts more demand on your CPU in addition to the GPU load. For example, cranking up draw distance, physics effects, ambient occlusion, antialiasing, and post-processing effects can drive up CPU usage and lower FPS.

Based on tests by HotHardware, activating ray tracing and ultra settings in Cyberpunk 2077 pushed both their Core i9 CPU and RTX 3090 GPU to 100% usage consistently. Optimizing these variables or choosing a "competitive" preset can help unload the CPU.

Hardware Bottlenecks

A CPU bottleneck is when your processor can‘t keep up with the pace of frames your graphics card can render. This often happens when pairing extremely powerful modern GPUs with older or weaker CPUs.

According to Tom‘s Hardware, even 2019‘s 6-core i5-9400F can‘t keep up with an RTX 3080 for 144+ FPS gaming in several titles at 1440p max settings. Upgrading to a current gen i5-12600K boosted frame rates over 30% in some games by eliminating the bottleneck.

Overheating Issues

Excess heat leading to CPU throttling can also cause apparent usage spikes. Both AMD and Intel chips will lower clock speeds dramatically once junction temperatures pass 95-100C.

Per tests by GamersNexus, simply reapplying thermal paste on an overheating Ryzen 5800X in Cyberpunk 2077 boosted frames by 18% thanks to eliminated thermal throttling. Ensuring proper cooling helps your CPU sustain peak clocks and performance.

Cryptominers & Malware

Finally, cryptocurrency mining malware and programs silently running in the background can drive up idle and gaming CPU usage. Based on reports from Avast, certain Monero and EternalBlue cryptojackers can utilize up to 80% of CPU resources left unattended.

Solutions & Precautions

If your CPU hits 100% and causes performance issues during gaming sessions, there are some troubleshooting steps to resolve usage spikes:

  • Close unnecessary background apps & browser tabs
  • Adjust in-game graphic settings for optimal FPS
  • Update Windows, GPU drivers, chipset & BIOS
  • Check CPU/GPU temperatures & cooling
  • Disable startup programs
  • Run an antivirus scan for malware & cryptojackers
  • Consider upgrading outdated computer hardware

Ideally, average CPU usage should sit between 50-80% during heavy gaming for smooth performance thanks to unused headroom. Spikes up to 95-100% during loading or dense scenes are expected, but sustained maximum usage indicates an issue.

With some software tweaks and component upgrades as needed, you can eliminate frustrating CPU bottlenecks and usage spikes while gaming. Let me know if you have any other questions!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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